Valentine heart jars provide quick, easy sweetheart project

Turn an empty jar into a Valentine's Day delight in just a few easy steps

Mary Beth Magee

A plain glass container (craft stores such as Hobby Lobby, Michael’s or JoAnn carry them, as well as many discount stores), colored tissue paper and diluted glue can work together to create a charming Valentine gift or gift packaging. Whether used open or closed, the finished product can create a temporary delight or long-lasting memory. A single heart to highlight a vase or a chain of hearts around a jar of candy will make Valentine’s Day a lasting memory for the recipient.

Supplies:

Clean glass bottle or jar (plastic for younger crafters)

Colored tissue wrapping paper

Scissors

Any clear-drying household glue

Narrow paint brush or fine sponge spreader

Embellishments as desired

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Clean glass jar and paper hearts Mary Beth Magee

Clean glass jar and paper hearts

Purchase a simple glass container or recycle an attractive jar to provide the foundation of the project. (The sample in the photos is an empty jelly jar.) Choose a size appropriate for the final use. Wash thoroughly and remove any labels or stickers as well as any adhesive residue.

While the container dries, cut hearts of various sizes from colored wrapping tissue. Red, pink, rose and white papers can create a pleasing combination, or use the recipient’s favorite colors. Lay the hearts out in a mock-up of the final design to ensure a sufficient number of pieces to achieve the desired effect.

Glue hearts in placeMary Beth Magee

Glue hearts in place

Dilute plain white glue with an equal amount of water or use purchased decoupage glue to attach the tissue hearts to the glass container. Hearts may be overlapped, placed at angles to each other or arranged in a straight line as desired. Blot any excess glue with paper towels, using a light touch to avoid tearing or wrinkling the hearts.

Let the glue dry thoroughly. Add embellishments, if desired, such as glue-on rhinestones to outline the heart or create a message. Choose such embellishments with the final use of the jar in mind.

Show that special someone that he or she lights your fireMary Beth Magee

Show that special someone that he or she lights your fire

Add a votive candle, candy, flowers or other gift contents to make that special someone’s Valentine’s Day as special as they are. Adapt this project for younger crafters by using a plastic container rather than glass. An adult can precut the hearts for little fingers.

A simple gift becomes special in a personalized containerMary Beth Magee

A simple gift becomes special in a personalized container

Add extra pizzazz to a simple gift, such as these candy hearts, with a customized jar to hold the gift. Or use the technique to create a cheery serving utensil for a Valentine celebration. The size of the container and depth of the decorations can adapt to any need.

Add a bow or a bonnet to your jarMary Beth Magee

Add a bow or a bonnet to your jar

For a more permanent washable finish, coat the finished product with clear varnish. Once the varnish dries, add any desired accents, such as ribbon tied around the neck or a painted lid. For a quick, simple lid, glue a circle of tissue or fabric to the lid and trim with ribbon.

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Mary Beth Magee draws on her curiosity and love of research to explore the world around her and write about it. She first saw her name in print as a juvenile book reviewer her hometown paper and hasn't stopped writing since. Her checkered past includes stints as a telephone operator, substitute school teacher, cosmetic sales, home health aide, government contractor, kitchen help in a deli, real estate sales, office manager and corporate trainer. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, focusing on adult learning. Over the years, her writings covered news and feature articles for print and online publications, book and movie reviews, training materials, greeting cards, short fiction, poetry, and church bulletins.